Eye Conditions

Scratchy and/or Watery eyes

There are many eye conditions that may cause ‘scratchy’ and ‘watery’ symptoms, such as eye infection, dry eyes and eye inflammation. It is important to determine the cause of the problem with an eye examination. Our optometrists can prescribe medications to treat these conditions.

Floaters and Flashes

Floaters are a common visual occurrence and rarely cause vision impairment or blindness. However, if floaters are associated with flashes, or if there are new or increased numbers or size of floaters in your vision, this may be an indication of a serious problem. Please contact us immediately for an appointment.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the most common forms of eye disease affecting up to 25% of the population. It is characterised by watery, red, itchy eyes with a stringy discharge. Other symptoms include swelling, soreness and stinging. An accurate diagnosis is the first step in successfully treating this condition.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the optic nerve at the back of the eye is slowly and permanently destroyed. Generally there are no warning signs or pain associated with glaucoma. While glaucoma becomes increasingly common with age, it can occur at any time and can be a genetically inherited condition. Early detection and appropriate treatment will save sight.

Our Optometrists are fully qualified and experienced in diagnosing and managing Glaucoma. The Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT Scan), Digital Retinal Imaging (digital photo) and visual field testing are all a part of our comprehensive Glaucoma management programme.

Diabetes and the Eye

More than one million Australians have diabetes. Diabetes can cause both changes in vision over time and daily fluctuations in the ability to focus properly. An Optometrist can be the first clinician to recognise diabetes signs in their patients.

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common diabetic eye diseases. It is caused by changes in the small blood vessels of the retina. These vessels may swell and leak fluid into the surrounding retina and sometimes abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. If you have diabetic retinopathy, you may not notice changes to your vision. But over time, diabetic retinopathy can get progress causing vision loss and blindness.

We recommend a specialised eye examination on diagnosis of Diabetes, with ongoing annual review. Changes must be detected early to ensure appropriate intervention and prevention of vision loss.

Our Optometrists have many years experience in the detection and management of diabetic eye disease. We have invested in state of the art equipment such as retinal imaging and macula scanning to ensure changes are detected as early as possible.

Macular Degeneration (MD)

MD is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia.

The macula is the central part of the retina, the specialised light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The retina processes all visual images. It is responsible for your ability to read, recognise faces, drive and see colours clearly. MD causes progressive macular damage which can result in the loss of central vision but the peripheral vision is not affected.

MD is thought to be caused by genetic and environmental factors. If you smoke or have a family history of MD, your risk of developing the disease is much greater.

Regular eye tests are important for early detection, which can be vital in saving sight. Our optometrists have extensive experience in diagnosing macular degeneration and they work closely with visiting eye surgeons in managing this condition.

Cataracts

Cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens inside the eye. The most common causes are age, disease (such as diabetes), medication and trauma. Symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, poor night vision, dull colours, glare problems, poor reading even with glasses and double vision.

Our optometrists are experienced in detecting and managing the development and progression of cataract. We work closely with the visiting ophthalmologists to determine the appropriate time for cataract surgery and facilitate your referral.

Pterygium

A pterygium is a triangular shaped lump of tissue growing from the white of the eye and on to the cornea. They are strongly associated with exposure to UV and hot and dusty environments. They are more common among people such as farmers and surfers who spend a lot of time outdoors, but anyone can develop a pterygium.

Although pterygia are not dangerous, they can affect sight and should be monitored regularly. They can be surgically removed; our Optometrists will advise if surgery is required.

If you have any area of tissue on or around the eyes that changes rapidly you should contact us immediately for an appointment.